The Moth has seen a trio of ninja-style burglars working the city, and it is no coincidence that the Chinese circus is in town. Jack Mahoney and Sophia take in their act, and have an encounter with some street urchins after the show. When Jack hears a burglar alarm go off, he springs to action as the Moth and tries to stop the elusive Chinese thieves, but it's like trying to grab smoke. Jack's stashed civilian threads get lifted by the street urchins, and when Jack tracks them down, he finds dysfunctional families and a child in need. Soon, Jack has adapted Ms. Rebe Michaelson as a ward of his circus. Later, a mysterious African hit-man visits, leaving a warning that he has targeted the Moth.